Comparative Analysis of High Lexicons in Balinese and Javanese Languages

Authors

  • Sry Satriya Tjatur Wisnu Sasangka Research Center for Language, Literature, and Community
  • Sang Ayu Putu Eny Parwati Research Center for Language, Literature, and Community
  • Nurweni Saptawuryandari Research Center for Language, Literature, and Community
  • Hasina Fajrin R. Research Center for Language, Literature, and Community
  • Wati Kurniawati Research Center for Preservation of Language and Literature
  • Santy Yulianti Research Center for Language, Literature, and Community
  • Ryen Maerina Research Center for Preservation of Language and Literature
  • Sarwo Ferdi Wibowo Research Center for Manuscript, Literature, and Oral Tradition
  • Mu’awal Panji Handoko Research Center for Language, Literature, and Community
  • Ery Agus Kurnianto Research Center for Language, Literature, and Community

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17507/tpls.1601.08

Keywords:

Javanese language, Balinese language, lexicons, speech level, comparative analysis

Abstract

The lexicon of a language reflects the richness and diversity of its vocabulary. This study compares high lexical items in Balinese and Javanese, focusing specifically on the singgih register in Balinese and the high registers in Javanese—namely krama, krama andhap, and krama inggil. The research investigates phonological and morphological transformations, as well as semantic shifts, that occur across corresponding lexical items. By systematically codifying the similarities and differences between these refined lexical items, the study aims to contribute to vocabulary development in both Balinese and Javanese, and potentially to the enrichment of the Indonesian lexicon. Employing a comparative-analytical methodology, this research analyzes refined lexical items drawn from a 230-word Swadesh list. The findings indicate that many Balinese refined lexical items exhibit notable similarities with their Javanese counterparts, suggesting a strong influence of Javanese—particularly from the ngoko and krama levels—on the Balinese singgih register. Overall, the sor (low) register in Balinese aligns closely with Javanese ngoko, while the singgih (refined) register corresponds to various levels of Javanese krama.

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Published

2026-01-07

Issue

Vol. 16 No. 1 (2026)

Section

Articles